Eau Claire Library Announces Reopening at Temporary Location

The L.E. Phillips Memorial Public Library in Eau Claire is now open at its temporary location, 2725 Mall Drive. What’s more, the library has reinstated most of its normal services (with special safety modifications), including appointment-free walk-in visits.

Library staff is excited to reopen at the temporary facility as construction crews begin major expansion and renovation work at the library’s downtown location. They’re also excited to offer the most complete level of services they’ve been able to safely provide since pandemic-related restrictions began in March of 2020.

Library Director Pamela Westby says, “We are delighted to reopen the library for in-person services. I believe folks will appreciate the level of access to all our collections and the cozy environment. I want to thank everyone for their patience during the move, the community has been tremendously supportive.”

Onsite Service Updates

• Customers may visit the library to browse materials, use computers (1-hour guarantee), and access other services during open hours. No appointments are necessary.

• If the library has reached its maximum capacity, customers may wait outside until others leave. Customers are encouraged to keep their visits as brief as possible.

• Those planning any kind of group visit are strongly encouraged to call ahead and discuss the visit with staff.

• A majority of the library’s collection will be available for browsing. The rest of the materials will be kept at a nearby facility and available to customers within about one business day.

• Reference and account services (including getting a library card) are available onsite or via phone, email, and online chat.

• As usual, cardholders can reserve materials through the library’s online catalog. To retrieve these materials, customers may simply enter the building and pick up their holds. A library card is needed to check out reserved materials.

Hours

Based on community feedback and limited staffing, the library will be open at these times:

Monday: 4–8 p.m.

Tuesday: 10 a.m.–5 p.m.

Wednesday: 4–8 p.m.

Thursday: 10 a.m.–5 p.m.

Friday: 10 a.m.–5 p.m.

Saturday: 10 a.m.–5 p.m.

Sunday: CLOSED

Parking

Ample parking is available in the large lot directly outside the library entrance. Bike racks are also available. Customers may enter via the door marked “Entrance.”